Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2025
04:42
Clinical Application of Microscope-Assisted Minimally Invasive Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Published on: June 16, 2023
627
The Alar Fascia and Danger Space: A Modern Review
Tammy Phan1, Johnson Lay1, Frank Scali2
1School of Medicine, California University of Science and Medicine, Colton, USA.
Cureus
|January 26, 2023
Summary
The alar fascia is a distinct layer in the deep neck, potentially blocking infection spread to the danger space. Understanding this anatomy is vital for clinical practice and imaging.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Deep cervical region
Background:
- The deep cervical fascia plays a critical role in compartmentalizing infections.
- The alar fascia's exact nature and function have been debated.
- Recent advancements offer new insights into deep neck anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of the alar fascia.
- To explore its clinical implications as an access point to the danger space.
- To provide an updated review of the alar fascia and danger space.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of PubMed up to August 2022.
- Analysis of 32 plastinated head and neck slices using stereomicroscopy.
- Assessment of retropharyngeal, alar, and prevertebral fasciae morphology and continuity.
Main Results:
- The alar fascia is identified as a true fascial layer between the retropharyngeal and danger spaces.
- It is composed of dense connective tissue and may act as a barrier against infection spread.
- Complications of deep neck infections involving the danger space include mediastinitis and necrotizing fasciitis.
Conclusions:
- A thorough understanding of the alar fascia and danger space anatomy is essential.
- This knowledge aids in routine clinical assessment, particularly with imaging.
- Accurate anatomical knowledge is crucial for managing deep neck infections.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Layers of Connective Tissue Proper
2.0K
Fascia, a thin layer of fibrous connective tissue, is distributed throughout the body. It demarcates and forms a supportive covering over skeletal muscles, bones, blood vessels, and organs. There are three main types of facia— superficial fascia, deep fascia, and subserous fascia. These are all present at different depths in the body. Fascia reduces the friction and permits muscles, joints, and organs to easily slide against each other, facilitating movement of the body and preventing...
2.0K
01:21Association Areas of the Cortex
5.7K
Association areas are regions of the cerebral cortex that do not have a specific sensory or motor function. Instead, they integrate and interpret information from various sources to enable higher cognitive processes such as memory, learning, and decision-making. Some key association areas include the following:
Prefrontal Association Area: This area is located in the frontal lobe and is involved in planning, decision-making, and moderating social behavior. It connects with primary motor areas,...
Prefrontal Association Area: This area is located in the frontal lobe and is involved in planning, decision-making, and moderating social behavior. It connects with primary motor areas,...
5.7K
01:30Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
1.1K
A thorough assessment of respiratory health is paramount in clinical settings to identify and manage respiratory distress and ensure adequate oxygenation. This article elaborates on the critical aspects of respiratory evaluation, including airway assessment, skin color examination, and the observation of accessory muscle use, which are integral to effectively diagnosing and managing patients with respiratory conditions.
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
1.1K